Bachendorf's

FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 1 1 T H E M A G A Z I N E O F L I F E ’ S C E L E B R AT I O N S

POWER PIECES MAKE A STATEMENT PLATINUM PLEASURES PLUS: Gold Makes a Marriage Cruising in Style The Perfect Proposal

WELCOME

TO OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS, Welcome to the fall edition of Accent magazine! There is nothing like the buzz and excitement of such a great year behind us, with another one full of possibility just ahead. 2011 was filled with fun. Let's start with the Diamond Dash we hosted in the spring, where one lucky couple won a beautiful Ritani diamond engagement ring. Then Ivanka Trump hosted a glittering soiree to debut her fine jewelry collection at one of our Bachendorf’s stores. In June, I was honored by being inducted into the National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame, in the Multi-Store Independent category. And Bachendorf’s won the Readers’ and Consumers’ Choice Awards for 2011 from the Consumers’ Choice Institute.

This is one of the greatest issues we've published to date, full of gorgeous advertisements and informative editorial content. Here's a glimpse of some articles we’ve written with your interests in mind.

Let's get cooking on a grand holiday! The hottest vacationing trend is gourmet cooking classes, always authentic as you prepare dishes where they originated, anywhere from a 13th-century Tuscan villa to a 15thcentury French castle. Cook with the masters and bring home flavors—and memories—that will last a lifetime.

Gold, long considered the official metal of love, is going strong and getting a fresh start! See how the World Gold Council is adding humor to their advertising and laugh along with us as we’re reminded of the good times tied to this precious metal.

Statement jewelry is hotter (and hauter) than ever! We’ll walk you through how to wear it, from pearls to chalcedony to darkened metal. For the upcoming holiday season, Bachendorf’s is ready to meet all your jewelry needs. We look forward to bringing you new designs from Forevermark, Marco Bicego and Konstantino, as well as our other world-renowned designers.

The stars love platinum engagement rings! You’ll get a glimpse into the glamorous choice of today's hottest celebrities. Check out the fast facts and learn why you should invest in platinum!

Fall is here, and with it comes your new issue of Accent. Enjoy both, because you deserve it.

We hope to see you soon, Lawrence Bock President

Galleria Level 1 13350 Dallas Parkway Suite 1415 Dallas, TX 75240 (972) 392-9900

Shops at Legacy – North 7401 Lone Star Drive Suite B100 Plano, TX 75024 (972) 596-2090

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Plaza at Preston Center 8400 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 692-8400

Rock Tradition.

Contents fall/winter 2011 S T O R E L O C AT I O N S : P L A Z A AT P R E S T O N C E N T E R 8400 PRESTON ROAD DALLAS, TX 75225 214-692-8400 GALLERIA LEVEL 1 13350 DALLAS PARKWAY SUITE 1415 DALLAS, TX 75240 972-392-9900 S H O P S AT L E G A C Y– N O R T H 7401 LONE STAR DRIVE SUITE B100 PLANO, TX 75024 972-596-2090

P U B L I S H E D B Y T H E B J I FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER STU NIFOUSSI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

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HANS GSCHLIESSER MANAGING EDITOR JILLIAN SPRAGUE PROJECT MANAGER LISA MONTEMORRA DESIGNERS CYNTHIA LUCERO JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI PRODUCTION MANAGER

28 Fashion Color Report

2 Welcome Letter

40 Travel: Having it All

6 Dallas Diamond Dash

42 Perfect Gems

7 Ivanka Visits Plaza at Preston Center

44 Food: Culinary Class 46 End Page: The Ultimate Gift

PEG EADIE DIRECTOR OF PREPRESS HUGH K. STANTON PRESIDENT AND CEO BRITTON JONES CHAIRMAN AND COO MAC BRIGHTON

8 Retailer Hall of Fame Profile 10 Best Bets

BRIDAL SECTION

12 Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer

32 The Rings: Keeping it Real

14 Accent Advisor

35 The Proposal: Setting Sail

16 Interview: Irresistibly Ivanka

36 The Jewels: Shine On

18 Profile: Hit the Links

38 The Memories: Capture Your Love

Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2011.

Accent® is Published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550, Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175; Advertising Office: 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018, 212-

20 Red Carpet: Bright Spots

686-4412 • Fax: 212-686-6821; All Rights Reserved. The publishers accept no responsibilities for advertisers claims, unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the

24 Trends: Power Pieces

publishers. Volume 9, Issue 2. Accent® is a trademark of Business Journals, Inc. registered in the U.S. Patent and

26 Fashion: From the Runways

Trademark office. Printed In The U.S.A.

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RING IMAGE COURTESY OF IVANKA TRUMP. COVER ILLUSTRATION BY DARIA JABENKO.

FEATURES

NEW EBEL BRASILIA

©2011 Ebel - www.ebel.com - Ref 1216034-1216035

EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S

BACHENDORF’S DALLAS DIAMOND DASH

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ast spring, Bachendorf’s was thrilled to host the very first Bachendorf’s Dallas Diamond Dash! The scavenger hunt for the chance to win a $15,000 Ritani Ring began at Victory park in downtown Dallas, took the competitors through the streets of downtown and ended at Sambuca restaurant in uptown Dallas, where J.J. Pledger and Liz Campbell were announced our winners and awarded their beautiful new engagement ring. Here, we share with you their story, in the words of the lucky bride-to-be: “Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the Bachendorf’s Dallas Diamond Dash! J.J. and I have nothing but good things to say about the event. We had an incredible time hustling around downtown Dallas deciphering clues and looking for answers! It was physically and mentally challenging, and it felt like we were on The Amazing Race! We have recommended the event to all of our friends and family! Winning the Ritani diamond ring at the after party was truly surprising and an unforgettable memory for the two of us. The gorgeous ring had to be sized, and I was very eager to be able to wear it...

“Since the event, J.J. and I have become officially engaged! J.J. proposed over an amazing dinner and then we celebrated with a few friends and family afterwards at a hotel. What a memorable evening! The ring is absolutely gorgeous, and we couldn’t be happier! We are busy with wedding plans already. We’re hoping for a November or December wedding this year! Thank you for helping us to create a special memory in our relationship that we will share with our future children and grandchildren in the years to come. Every time I look at the ring, I will smile and remember Bachendorf’s Dallas Diamond Dash of 2011!”

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EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S

IVANKA VISITS PLAZA AT PRESTON CENTER

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n April 21, Bachendorf’s, one of America’s premier fine jewelry retailers, debuted the Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry collection and celebrated our new exclusive retail partnership with an intimate by-invitation-only cocktail reception hosted by Ivanka Trump and the Bock Family.

The VIP launch event was held at Bachendorf’s Plaza at Preston Center location (8400 Preston Road, Dallas), where guests enjoyed champagne and hors d'oeuvres. The event was a huge success and resulted in many sales of iconic Ivanka Trump pieces, such as the black diamond briolette tassel necklace and signature oval bead necklace. Guests received signed copies of The Trump Card, Ivanka Trump’s New York Times bestselling business memoir. "I am thrilled to have launched my fine jewelry collection at Bachendorf’s," said Ivanka. "The Bachendorf’s customer is aligned with my own target audience: a smart, sophisticated modern woman who appreciates quality and craftsmanship."

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EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S

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awrence Bock, president of three-store chain Bachendorf’s Jewelers, was inducted into the National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame on June 4 at the Wynn Las Vegas in the Multi-Store Independent category.

Upon his induction, the Dallas-area retailer joined the ranks of other highly regarded, formerly inducted multi-store retailers as Bob Rottenberg of Long’s Jewelers in Massachusetts and Steve Polacheck’s of Polacheck’s Jewelers in California.

“It’s a real honor,” he says of his selection to the Retailer Hall of Fame. “We work hard every day.”

Bock’s experience in the jewelry business stretches back to his teenage days when he did “a little bit of everything” around the family’s store. He came on full time at Bachendorf’s after graduating from college in 1981, helping with back-office duties and organizing the watch department.

Three decades later, Bock presides over three Texas stores—two in Dallas and one in Plano—and says that, at this point, the jewelry business has just become part of him: “When you’ve been around the whole game for this long, it just kind of gets in your blood. I love it. I love working with jewelry.”

But Bock also acknowledges that the industry isn’t the same as it used to be, particularly as it pertains to one area that holds a special place in his family’s heritage—diamonds.

Bock’s grandfather, Abram Bock, started designing and manufacturing jewelry as an apprentice in 1900 in St. Petersburg, Russia, and later moved to Memel, Germany. In 1939, Abram's jewelry business was seized by the Nazis, and Abram and his family were

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forced into slave labor at the Kovno ghetto and subsequently sent to the Dachau concentration camp.

Abram, his son, Harry, and one daughter, Ali, survived and immigrated to Dallas in 1947 to be near family. Abram opened a jewelry repair shop and, leveraging his diamond-trading connections in Belgium, eventually began selling diamonds.

Harry Bock helped his father grow this business and started his own company, The Harry Bock Company, which owns and operates Bachendorf’s Jewelers. He chose the different name for his retail store in order to keep it separate from the Bock business.

“The diamond business was a lot of fun, collecting the stones, giving beautiful things to people that appreciated them,” Lawrence Bock says.

Today, though, the stones have become too commoditized, thanks in part to the Internet, he explains. It’s caused them to lose a little of their luster and hurt people’s understanding of the value of a diamond.

At Bachendorf’s, the store has adapted to some of the new technology deemed by many to be necessary components of retail today. Links to the Bachendorf’s Facebook page and Twitter feed can be found on Bachendorfs.com.

But in homage to his father, Bock, who runs the store along with his brothers Steven and David, said he has tried to keep the business as traditional as possible. The store relies heavily on what it has ever since it first opened its doors in the late 1970s—helping long-time customers celebrate special occasions and quality product.

“It’s not like you’re selling something that’s going to last 30 or 60 or 90 days," Bock says. "We sell jewelry that’s going to last generations."

THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN REPRINTED IN ACCENT WITH THE PERMISSION OF NATIONAL JEWELER.

RETAILER HALL OF FAME PROFILE: LAWRENCE BOCK

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BACHENDORF’S

BestBets IWC Ref. 3769 Aquatimer Chronograph in 18K red gold. Chunky external rotating bezel with ultra-strong luminescent coating under the sapphire-glass ring to guarantee optimum legibility. Price upon request.

BACHENDORF’S EXCLUSIVE Rose, yellow and white gold bangles with white and cognac diamonds, ranging from 6 to 13.30 ctw. Price upon request.

KONSTANTINO Nykta collection cuff in solid etched sterling silver and solid 18K gold, with pearl and faceted black onyx. $1,800

HEARTS ON FIRE Obsession Marquee earrings in 18K yellow gold with diamonds (.45 ctw). Light and airy, they can be worn from day to night. Also available in white gold. Price upon request.

ROLEX Oyster Perpetual Lady-Datejust Pearlmaster. 29mm, in 18K Everose gold with 12 diamond bezel, chocolate Roman dial with diamond-set VI and Pearlmaster bracelet. $30,300

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PENNY PREVILLE 18K white gold earrings with diamonds (.65 ctw) and oval blue sapphire slice (2.24 ctw). $4,290 18” 18K white gold chain necklace with diamonds (.5 ctw) and oval blue sapphire slice (1.12 ctw). $2,860

LAGOS Sterling silver link necklace with five stations of five freshwater cultured pearls, finished with signature lobster clasp. $795

GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL Seventies Panorama Date in stainless steel. $11,100

TAG HEUER Formula 1 41mm quartz chronograph. Polished stainless steel case and bracelet with white ceramic.

Polished stainless steel and white ceramic fixed bezel set with 60 diamonds. White ceramic dial set with 12 diamond markers and chronograph feature. Date window at 4:30. Water resistant to 200 meters. $2,700

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VERRAGIO Engagement ring from the new Venetian collection featuring .45 carats of pavé-set round brilliant diamonds to enhance a round diamond center. Available in gold and platinum. Price upon request.

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

WIPE OUT KIDS’ CANCER PROVIDES HOPE AND SUPPORT TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES BATTLING CANCER.

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ach year over 600 families in the DFW area receive the devastating news that a child or sibling has cancer. The diagnosis is usually accompanied by an unexpected and immediate admission to the hospital for treatment, leaving families unprepared and lost in the world of pediatric cancer. Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is a Dallas-based non-profit organization providing hope and support to children and families battling cancer.

A group of 15 children undergoing cancer treatment at Children’s Medical Center Dallas is selected each year to be the WOKC Ambassadors.

These Ambassadors represent the 400-plus pediatric cancer patients at Children’s and are the heroes behind the WOKC mission to eradicate pediatric cancer.

WOKC serves as a support group for the Ambassador Families and treats them to special events held in their honor throughout the year, giving the children a chance to just be kids and forget about cancer for a few hours each month. Annual events include a Texas Rangers’ baseball game, Fish Camp, a Dallas Stars’ hockey game, a Texas Legends’ basketball game, a holiday party with presents for the entire family...and more!

These events also provide a support system for the entire family by connecting them with other families battling the disease. Over the years, WOKC has served over 250 families through the Ambassador Program. Some Ambassador Families say that the program not only saved their child—it saved their family.

How Can You Help? One in every 330 American children will be diagnosed with a form of cancer this year, and 2,500 children will lose their battle with cancer. Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer is dedicated to raising awareness and funding for pediatric cancer research on a national basis, and to supporting kids and families dealing with cancer. Please join WOKC in making a difference by donating your time, resources or money to make a difference in the life of a child. For more information about WOKC, contact us at 214-987-4662 or visit www.wokc.org.

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ACCENTADVISOR

I HEAR A LOT ABOUT JEWELRY WARDROBING: WHAT ARE THE “MUSTHAVE” ITEMS? While there are no hard and fast rules, a great timepiece is an absolute essential. Since you wear this item often, if not daily, it should be something that embraces your personal style and suits your way of life (i.e. don’t get a leather strap or dainty diamond-encrusted model if you swim or play sports every day).

There are many great options in well-priced materials such as ceramic, stainless steel and gold. Select features that meet your needs and reflect your personality.

Another key item is a necklace or pendant that has special meaning to you, or showcases your individual style. Keep in mind that since your neck area is one of the first things people notice, a distinctive piece is memorable. Lastly, select great earrings that you don’t have to think about. These could be diamond studs, bold hoops, or something more elaborate, but keep it relevant to your regime, something you can put on and then forget about for the day!

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT FALL/WINTER 2011 JEWELRY TRENDS?

I NEED SOME GIFT IDEAS FOR MEN: ANY SUGGESTIONS?

Jewelry is certainly an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe, perfect for jazzing up any outfit. Though we all have those traditional jewelry pieces, wearing them on a daily basis hardly inspires enthusiasm. So mix it up! To ensure that your look doesn’t get pigeonholed, diversify your jewelry collection to include trend pieces that can be paired with classics.

According to top designers around the globe, fall/winter 2011 is the season to go bold!

Chunky statement jewelry in bright colors is a key fashion trend—choose pieces that stand out from, rather than blend in with, your outfit.

Go for extra-large bracelets, shiny danglers for ears, notable necklaces. If you’re a fan of motifs, now’s the time to mix and match various icons (animal, floral, religious) to create a unique look that’s very “you.”

Lastly, remember to invest in bangles (or other bold bracelets) this season, a must-have for every fashionista. Those who love chunky rings can brandish huge retro-inspired styles that not only look great but are also easy on the pocketbook.

Whether your guy’s a corporate type or a musician, there’s some great new men’s jewelry in our store. Obviously, a good watch is always the ultimate gift and we have plenty of fabulous options. (Many of today’s best styles are more elegant and classic than in seasons past; rose gold is also trending.)

Cuff links are always a great gift, allowing a man to express his personality, even in the boardroom. Choose a motif that relates to his interests or passions (sailing, golf), or match the gemstone or enamel to his favorite color.

For the guy who’s cool and contemporary, neck or wrist jewelry that combines high-tech metals with natural and/or precious materials will bring out his inner rockstar. You know it’s in there somewhere!

A romantic idea: why not buy each other new gold or platinum bands to celebrate your love and your ever-evolving relationship?

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IMAGE COURTESY OF STEPHEN WEBSTER

Choose a notice-me necklace to update your jewelry wardrobe.

INTERVIEW

Irresistibly Ivanka TALENTED, DRIVEN, AND VERY MUCH HER OWN PERSON, IVANKA TRUMP CONTINUES THE LEGACY.

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

How and why did you get into the jewelry business?

My mother’s Legacy jewelry collection always inspired me, and my love for the classic aesthetic helped propel my vision. I realized the luxury fine jewelry market was missing a fresh, young design approach. That’s where my vision of “Rock Tradition” plays a vital role—it’s a modern twist on jewelry’s most important classic. I’ve always had a passion for jewelry. I wanted to make women of my time feel comfortable buying fine jewelry.

Where do you get the ideas and inspiration for your designs?

My creative vision is Heirloom Chic, the youthful reinvention of important legacy jewelry. Heirloom Chic puts a modern twist on classic jewelry, capturing a sense of fine workmanship, tradition and offhand elegance. I’m influenced by everything around me, especially my travels.

Tell us a little about your fall 2011 collection.

My 2011 collection is named Noor, meaning “light” in Arabic. It’s an exquisite new line of Art Deco-style jewels inspired by the sensual transparency of vintage lace, the play of light through its delicate pattern, and the intricate ornamentation of Byzantine architecture with its mosaic and arabesque patterns. I drew inspiration for the Noor collection beginning in 2010 while traveling to Morocco, Turkey and Baku, Azerbaijan. Design elements from these rich cultures were incorporated into the interior of the Trump Soho lobby and spa while some references were transformed into sketches for the new jewelry collection.

What is your personal favorite piece from your collection?

It has to be the medium signature oval diamond earrings: they really make a statement but are classically understated at the same time.

How would you describe your jewelry style at the office?

I stick to chic, timeless items like delicate bangles, banded rings and elegant earrings. I have a pair of rose gold rock crystal bangles from my fine jewelry collection that are perfectly understated for the office. I love statement jewelry, but there’s a time and place for it. If you do choose to bring statement jewelry into the office, it‘s important to balance it with a more conservative outfit.

What have you learned (about business/life) from your father?

I love working with my father! I’ve learned a great deal from him over the years. He taught me that hard work never goes out of style and to always be prepared for interviews, meetings, discussions, everything. Work hard.

Create a strong and consistent identity—your name and reputation are your best assets. I couldn’t ask for a better mentor.

What advice would you give to a bride-to-be about her wedding?

Enjoy every moment—it goes by too quickly!

How do you think motherhood will change you?

It’s hard to say until I know my daughter’s needs and personality, but I hope to do as much as possible, while trying to be flexible and accommodating.

Getting Personal Describe Self: Driven Favorite Vacation Spot: Trump Waikiki Favorite Restaurant: Quattro at Trump Soho—fantastic light Italian food Favorite Cocktail: Champagne Favorite Movie: Snow Flower & The Secret Fan. It was amazing!

Favorite Book: Atlas Shrugged On your iPod: Katy Perry and Kanye West Hero or Mentor: My parents What few people know about you: I am an expert bowler!

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PROFILE

Hit the Links

DICK TRACY’S RADIO WATCH HAS NOTHING ON TAG HEUER’S NEW LINK LUXURY SMARTPHONES. BY ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

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t’s been a busy year for TAG Heuer, with new releases like the limited edition Monza Chronograph evoking (and updating) 1930s Italian race culture, the introduction of the Carrera Heritage Collection, which harkens back to the 1960s, and landing the official watch and eyewear partnership for the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix. With an eye to the 21st century, the company also released the ultra-high frequency Microtimer Flying 1000 concept chronograph, which it says is the first mechanical chronograph precise to 1,000th of a second.

Perhaps the most intriguing innovation for the company this year is the recent introduction of the TAG Heuer Link, an Android-powered luxury smartphone. This marks the company’s second foray into high-tech electronics, following the 2008 launch of the Meridiist mobile phone.

The Link, billed as “the first Swiss luxury touchscreen smartphone,” combines elements of TAG Heuer’s emphasis on watchmaking precision and design with avant-garde technological prowess.

The hand-assembled phone features Android’s 2.2 OS, eight gigs of built-in memory, a five-megapixel camera with auto focus and flash, 480x800 pixel/16 million color screen resolution, MP3 player (with available apps for FM radio and DivX video, and eventually video conferencing), along with all the usual niceties like Bluetooth tech, WiFi/WAPI

connectability and 3.5G download speeds (where available). The entire Android library of apps is at your fingertips, but the phone also comes preloaded with a host of TAG Heuer-themed add-ons.

This, however, is where the Link phone diverges from the average, minimalist smartphone. Luxury touches begin with the battery cover, available in calfskin, 3D carbon leather, alligator or white lizard. Watch elements—a beveled face, watchband-inspired leather covers, a Carrerainspired crown and an etched TAG Heuer logo—draw on TAG Heuer’s 150year heritage.

A variety of models offer up unique stitching, trim and housing: The “3D Carbon Leather” (in red or brown) is as sleek as a security briefcase, with satin-brushed stainless steel housing and contrast stitching. “Prestige” (in black or brown) is wrapped in alligator leather and features rose gold highlights on the loudspeaker, earpiece and crown. The exclusive “White Lizard” model (just released in September 2011) is encased in white lizard skin, with polished stainless steel sides and rear cover, set with over 1,000 VS-1 clear diamonds (2.53 total carat weight).

Like TAG Heuer’s watches, the Link smartphone is designed for the most up-to-date functionality, but also to impress. In both cases, it crosses the finish line far ahead of the competition.

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As the premier shopping and dining destination of North Texas, Galleria Dallas will help you make the best of every season. Find all the finest styles at Bachendorf’s, Façonnable, Karen Millen, Michael Kors, St. Croix, Tourneau, TOUS, Thomas Pink and more. Then enjoy our delicious dining options including The Grill on the Alley, Grand Lux Cafe, The Second Floor Bistro and Townhouse Kitchen & Bar. =k^ll3 :ikb\hm EZg^ u Lah^l3 LZdl ?b_ma :o^gn^ u C^p^ekr3 ;Z\a^g]hk_ l

A spectrum of style.

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RED CARPET

Bright Spots BREATHTAKING BEAUTY AND EYE-CATCHING ACCESSORIES HELP THESE LEADING LADIES STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD.

BY AMY SCIARETTA

Paula Patton

Rachel McAdams

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hether out on tour or singing on her home stage, Carrie Underwood is always polished to perfection. At American Idol’s finale results show, the cute country star rocked in a long-sleeved mini dress. Her Art Deco diamond and raspberry tourmaline drop earrings play off the geometric pattern of her dress and add a pop of color.

Classic: the definition of Paula Patton at the 2011 Simon Wiesenthal National Tribute Dinner. In a simple black spaghetti strap sheath, she let her 18K yellow gold and diamond earrings steal the show, proving she knows how to accessorize Just Wright.

If anyone can convince us that bronzer is overrated, it’s this light-skinned lady. Rachel McAdams looked anything but bland for the premiere of Sleeping Beauty at the 64th Annual Cannes Film Festival. Fierce red lips and an armful of diamond bangles added a feminine touch to her menswear-inspired neutrals.

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CARRIE / RACHEL: AMRAPALI. PAULA: CARRERA Y CARRERA.

Carrie Underwood

RED CARPET

JENNIFER / OLIVIA: CARRERA Y CARRERA. ERIN: DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH.

Jennifer Morrison

Olivia Wilde

Erin Andrews

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NEW TEXT TO COME Jennifer Morrison always preps to perfection. At American Idol’s finale results show, the cute country star rocked in a long-sleeved mini dress. Her Art-Deco diamond and raspberry tourmaline drop earrings play off the geometric pattern of her dress.

NEW TEXT TO COME Olivia Wilde at the 2011 Simon Wiesenthal National Tribute Dinner. In a simple black spaghetti strap sheath, Patton let her 18K yellow gold and diamond earrings steal the show. As one of Hollywood’s most confident leading ladies, Patton proves she knows how to accessorize Just Wright.

NEW TEXT TO COME Erin Andrews looked anything but bland for the premiere of Sleeping Beauty at the 64th Annual Cannes Film Festival. Notice-me red lips and an armful of diamond bangles added just enough pop to her menswear-inspired neutrals.

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DECO DAY DIAMOND ROSE GOLD, BROWN DIAMOND DIAL

TRENDS

POWER PIECES FASHION’S STRONG FAVORITES MAKE A STATEMENT. BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, marketing and trend specialists in contemporary fine designer luxury brands. “To be in style, you need huge rings, long and dangling earrings, and a signature wide cuff—or a stack of ‘wristies’ to build that wide-at-the-wrist look. Also be sure to buy at least one statement necklace. If not, then you need several of the new extra-long links and chains to layer and create that big look at the neck.”

In the necklace category, “Dramatic collars are important,” adds Jeanne Johngren, president of the Contemporary Jewelry Design Group (CJDG) and owner of an eponymous jewelry line. “Especially strong are unconventional ones with defining elements of a brand or designer making them extra special and further showcasing your distinctive style.”

SIZE MATTERS PEARLS WITH A NOTICE-ME “EDGE” Trite but true, there’s no other way to say it: These are not your grandmother’s pearls. In fact, insiders in the jewelry world no longer talk of “pearls” but instead “pearl fashion.” Unusual pearl statement jewelry is a must this year. “There has been a lot of pearl jewelry on the runways,” says Broili, “but it’s not about stark white pearls. Rather, the more warmed-up versions.”

Some of the best brands are showing new collections with pale pinks, creams, and lavenders and, to underscore the special statement look, the pearls are often in irregular shapes—perfect in their imperfection!

When it comes to the hottest jewelry trends, it simply isn’t the time for simple. So, first and foremost, when choosing your statement jewelry, consider what fashion insiders call “the silhouette.” In the case of jewelry, that means big, wide, or long. Nothing small, itty-bitty, or dainty. Not now anyway. To help you make selections, here are some notes on the silhouettes of the season in several specific jewelry categories: CUFFS They needn’t be massive and bulky like back in the ’70s, but they should definitely be wide. Pierced or with cutouts maybe—not filigree, but more like the look of crochet or lace.

RINGS Four of the new fashion favorites: chunky cocktail rings, with or without stones; uberwide bands; flat retro-looking cigar-band styles made to resemble the paper or foil loops fitted around cigars; and big “cuff rings” that are open at the bottom, allowing you to slightly adjust the fit yourself.

EARRINGS Not quite “shoulder-dusters” (Remember that term?), the lengthy earring looks fresh, either worn slim like a stiletto, wider with bead tassels, or with the metal shaped into generously-sized marquise or teardrop patterns.

LINKS AND CHAINS To mimic the size of a large collar or a big multi-strand choker, you need several, each at least 34 to 36 inches. Remember, this is statement jewelry, so the more the better. And because it’s your personal statement, buy a wardrobe of links and chains that are different from each other in terms of metals, gems and materials.

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IMAGES COURTESY OF MARCO BICEGO, MATTIOLI, ERICA COURTNEY, DANIEL GIBBINGS AND ROBERTO COIN

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his year’s number-one accessory is, without question, statement jewelry! It’s all about dramatic designs that reveal your self-assured personal style—jewelry that wows instead of whispers. Remember the fashion “winners” at the Academy Awards? Gwyneth Paltrow in mega-sized multi-color gem earrings with a matching brooch pinned at the hip of her curvehugging Calvin? Natalie Portman in rubellite tassel earrings swinging stylishly as she accepted her Best Actress Oscar? Helen Mirren in a bold white diamond pendant that added décolletage dazzle to her neutral gray Vivienne Westwood?

Now that’s what we’re talking about! And not just for red carpets and evening wear. “This is the season—and the year—for bold jewelry fashion statements for day and night,” says Cindy Edelstein, president of the

HUGELY HOT (AND HAUTE) GEMS “This year, there is a riot of colored stones set in jewelry,” says Edelstein. Adriane Broili, designer and trend forecaster at The Doneger Group in New York City, adds, “The colors are usually bold and bright with an eastern influence—especially from Japan—but also strong shades à la African fusion.”

James Alger, a gem cutter and stone importer who supplies the newest cuts and best gems to some of the biggest names in jewelry, says that this year, pinks are red hot, especially pink tourmaline, morganite and pink sapphire. “I haven’t seen pink stones so popular since 2002, when Jennifer Lopez got her 6.5-carat pink diamond engagement ring from Ben Affleck!” And speaking of pink diamonds, as they’re rarer than some other diamond colors— yellow, cognac and black, for example—natural color pink diamonds are the perfect choice for statement jewelry. Designers this season are sprinkling the smaller-size pinks in rose gold for a tone-on-tone jewelry look that becomes a great distinguishing everyday accessory—almost a “neutral” because of the monochromatic metal/gem combination.

While pinks are important, so too are many of the blue and green gemstones.

STATEMENT BLUES If you haven’t looked at blue chalcedony lately, do ask your jeweler about it. A treasured gemstone of the ancient world, contemporary designers are once again featuring this quartz, which has an ethereal adularescence. Also take a second look at aquamarine, another blue that high-end brands are rejuvenating by using it in transparent and translucent cuts in fresh and fashionable collections.

STATEMENT GREENS The “newest” dramatic greens include green chalcedony, prasiolite (green quartz), chrysoprase and zultanite, a gem with colorchanging properties found only in Turkey. Zultanite’s kiwi and khaki greens are some of the shades this diaspore mineral can take on.

ATTENTION-GETTING METALS & MATERIALS “Darkened metal jewelry is especially important right now, much of it multi-culturally influenced and vintagy in look,” says Broili. “But the blackened and grayed metals can also have a very modern feeling,” says Edelstein. “In fact, darkened metals are part of what I see as one of the newest trends—something I call ‘Techno Funk.’ It’s fun and casual, with pieces made for lots of layering, draping and stacking.” The newest combinations of metals and materials on a single piece of jewelry really amp up the look-at-me element. Great show-stoppers often mix white, gray and blackened silver together. Or they combine precious gold or platinum with materials like enamel, ceramic, stainless steel, cobalt, titanium and, in some cases, esoteric meteorite or unusual woods.

Bronze/high-karat yellow gold is a particularly important fashion pairing, as is palladium with sterling silver and touches of gold.

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FASHION

MIXED MATERIALS

FORMERLY FROWNED UPON, MIXED METALS AND STONES RULED THE FALL 2011 RUNWAYS.

BY KELSEY WHITE

Runways

From the

HARBOR BLUE

BLACK INK

PORCELAIN

PURPLE HEART

RIVIERA

ORCHID SMOKE

PEACOAT

The Pantone Fall/Winter Fashion Report is the foremost international authority on colors and trends for the upcoming style season. Created over 47 years ago with the purpose to simplify the decision-making and buying process for fashion designers, industry leaders and enthusiasts, the communication showcases the latest fashion trends and predictions—all in the name of vogue. Colors can evoke a strong mental picture: an image of yourself wrapped in a warm wool blanket with a cup of hot cocoa staring out onto a winter landscape just coming to light. That image becomes clear with Icy Morning, a collection reminiscent of dawn arriving with Peacoat, Porcelain and Orchid Smoke, transforming the dark colors of a wintery eve into the pinks of a fresh winter morning.

JADEITE

VIOLET

POINSETTIA

The sounds of an unrelenting ocean crashing onto a quiet beach feel close through the cool but mysterious colors of the Arctic Seascapes palette. Evocative of the icy arctic winter, Jadeite, Harbor Blue and Black Ink seem to harbor a secret underwater world in their astonishing depths. Summer will always return, and the Lavender and Lace color palette reminds us that it’s never far off. As we head into winter months, Violet, Purple Heart and Jadeite leave us with a delicate scent of the summer season.

The ocean becomes more mystifying as the months become colder, and the Anchors Aweigh color combination represents man’s quest to sail the mighty seas and explore what lies beyond. Poinsettia adds a punch of color and passion to the watery blues of Peacoat and Riviera.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE COLORS CHOSEN FOR THE FALL/WINTER 2011 COLOR REPORT, VISIT PANTONE.COM

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exquisite wedding invitations, stationery and gifts

WEDDINGS

TheBigDay

THE RINGS

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

Keeping It Real WHY THE WORLD GOLD COUNCIL HAS ADDED A DOSE OF HUMOR TO THEIR NEW MARKETING CAMPAIGN.

he fact that almost 78 percent of women in the U.S. purchase gold wedding bands (according to a study

by The Knot Market Intelligence) should keep the folks at the World Gold Council pretty happy. But according to Michael Pace, VP of marketing for the U.S. at the World Gold Council, there is no reason to get complacent. In fact, by adding some levity to their ad campaign, this organization is reminding both brides and grooms that gold plays a central role in a happy marriage.

“We’re changing the tone of how we speak to younger consumers who are searching for their marriage bands, so the ads really engage them and stand out in the bridal category,” Pace explains. “The ‘Gold Makes it a Marriage’ campaign is also backed up big time by a new Facebook page with videos, ads and some very interactive features.”

There’s even a ‘Makes it a Match’ app that takes information from your Facebook page and your partner’s, comparing them to show what you have in common.

The main message of the new campaign, according to Pace, is that most of the intricate details of your wedding (no matter how special) don’t last, and even the memories eventually fade, but the rings remain with you always. A gold marriage band is a symbol of a timeless and precious relationship and should therefore be a priority in your list of purchases for your wedding. “Your great uncle nearly breaking a hip to Bust a Move makes it a wedding; gold makes it a marriage” is a typical headline from the campaign. Then there’s a wonderful video, in which real married couples of all ages are asked about specific aspects of the big day. As might be predicted, their memories are vague and inconsistent; their responses are thus highly comical, especially some of the details that young couples obsess over (e.g. “We argued about the exact angle to set up the chairs…”).

“Gold is the original and authentic metal of love and was used for marriage bands by the Romans as far back as the 2nd century A.D.,” explains Pace. “Our new campaign focuses on this intrinsic value: your relationship is genuine—make sure your ring is too. Our goal is to create an emotional connection with both brides and grooms…”

And speaking of grooms, Pace says 97 percent of married men in the U.S. wear a wedding band, according to The Knot Market Intelligence study, and that most often it’s the only piece of jewelry they wear.

So we say to those brides-to-be: You want him to keep the ring on his finger? Make sure it’s fabulous and make sure it’s real gold!

THE MESSAGE IS THE MESSAGE A key advantage of using gold for wedding bands is that it’s highly malleable and thus engravable. In fact, throughout the ages, messages printed on gold bands have revealed many wonderful secrets of adoration and adulation. For those who can’t get beyond ‘I luv u’, here are a few suggestions: To the moon and back • Worth waiting for • A deal’s a deal • A lifetime of happiness • You jump, I jump See www.facebook.com/gold for more information about how ‘Gold Makes it a Marriage’ B R I D A L

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S E C T I O N

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Clarity Grade VS1

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As creator of the 4Cs and the International Diamond Grading System,™ GIA sets the standards for diamond assessment, worldwide. Unbiased. Scientific.

A report from GIA gives you a clear understanding of your diamond’s quality.

Look for GIA Diamond Grading Reports and the jewelers who offer them. www.4cs.gia.edu

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8/31/11 12:56 PM

THE PROPOSAL

BY AUSTIN DIAS

Setting Sail

fter searching for weeks, I finally stumbled across the perfect ring. The center stone appeared to float among the tiny diamonds that surrounded it. Next, I went to visit her parents to ask them for their blessing. They were excited and shared their wisdom with me.

Her Mom asked if she could see the ring, but I politely declined since I didn’t want anyone to see the ring before Jessica.

I had been planning to propose on a weekend that was over a month away, but couldn’t stand having the ring, since I knew it belonged on her finger. I had a few ideas for what the ultimate proposal would be, but I finally settled on one that involved our love of sailing and was going to take a large amount of preparation, teamwork and secrecy.

The plan involved borrowing a sailboat and organizing a crew of friends to sail the boat. I worked with a friend from a local sail making company to put “Marry Me?” on the spinnaker sail. Meanwhile, I was also contacting some of my best buddies to help crew the boat on this special mission. I created a plan for them that detailed multiple possible locations for the proposal: all depended upon the day’s wind direction and even included a “no wind” plan that involved putting the sail up and motoring backwards to make the spinnaker fly! The final piece of the puzzle was to have a professional photographer taking paparazzi-type photos while the proposal was unfolding.

The night before, I called Jessica and told her that I had just received a gift certificate to a nice restaurant on the bay. I wanted to wait until the B R I D A L

35

last minute to make it seem like it was nothing special, until I found out her roommate had already made plans with her! I spent the next day scrambling to contact her roommate to convince her to cancel.

Now the plan was in place! I met the crew at the boat and they all looked sharp in their khaki pants and white polos. They told me that I needed to leave! I was pretty nervous as I reviewed the plan over and over again.

Finally, after what felt like the longest day of my life, I picked up Jess and headed down to the bay. I asked her if we could go on a walk and she agreed that it would be nice. The ring was burning in my pocket! Then we noticed a boat dangerously close to the rocks…

“What is that boat doing?!” she asked, concerned. “I don’t know, let’s watch,” I replied.

The big white spinnaker sail flew up and in large red letters she read, “Marry Me?” She turned around to find me on one knee and the ring sparkling in the sunset. She cried with excitement and said, “YES, YES, YES!” My ultimate proposal came together perfectly, with my friends cheering wildly, and I held my fiancée in my arms as she wore the ring of her dreams.

The Jewelry Information Center’s second annual Ultimate Proposal Contest invited couples to submit their special proposal stories at www. JIC.org, and asked America to vote for a favorite amongst 10 Top Finalists. More than 6,000 people cast their vote to choose the winner. Austin Dias and his fiancée, Jessica Williams, won a seven-night Caribbean cruise from Norwegian Cruise Lines and a pair of platinum and diamond wedding bands. The story has been edited for ACCENT. S E C T I O N

THE JEWELS

BY HANNAH ROTH These platinum, sapphire and diamond rings are very similar to the engagement ring worn by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

Shine On CHOOSE THE METAL THAT’S HOT WITH THE STARS.

latinum has long been heralded as the crème de la crème of jewelry settings. Not only is the metal durable and resistant to corrosion, but platinum is also rare and eternal, much like the qualities of love. Most celebrities choose platinum for their rings because they want their large diamonds (20.5 carats in Kim Kardashian’s case!) to be as radiant and beautifully showcased as possible.

Another admirable quality of platinum is its natural white color, which flawlessly sets off the brilliance of the diamond and enhances the wowfactor. Here, some sparkling examples of why platinum is a gorgeous option for highlighting a gorgeous rock: Emily Blunt’s engagement to John Krasinski was made even more special by the addition of her three-carat Edwardian diamond and platinum ring. The custom-designed ring features side-scalloped detailing of alternating diamond and platinum ripples, emphasizing the

flawless cut and clarity of the center stone impeccably.

The unique engagement ring given to Katherine Heigl by nowhusband Josh Kelley boasts a three-carat pear shaped diamond flanked by rows of pavé diamonds. The everlasting quality of platinum jewelry is apparent in this design—half of the platinum band is actually from Heigl’s mother’s own engagement ring!

Beyonce and Jay-Z, the power-couple to rival all power-couples, exhibit their love in an equally powerful fashion. Beyonce’s 18-carat emerald-cut diamond set in platinum is reportedly worth $5 million and is a prime example of the brilliance and clarity a diamond can project when properly displayed.

FAST FACTS:

This brilliant cut diamond with pavé surround is comparable to Natalie Portman’s platinum and diamond engagement ring.

This three-stone ring closely resembles Kim Kardashian’s 20.5 carat stunner.

B R I D A L

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S E C T I O N

IMAGES COURTESY OF PLATINUM GUILD INTERNATIONAL

• Platinum is naturally white, so it won’t cast any color on a diamond.

• Platinum will never fade or change color.

• Platinum is the strongest metal, making it the best option to securely hold large diamonds.

• Platinum is eternal, with everlasting radiance and durability.

• Platinum won’t chip or scratch.

• Platinum is the most precious of metals.

BY JILLIAN SPRAGUE

BEFORE THE FIRST DANCE AND THE CAKE CUTTING COMES THE EXCHANGE OF RINGS, THOSE ICONIC SYMBOLS OF YOUR ETERNAL VOWS. CAPTURE THE BRILLIANCE OF YOUR WEDDING RINGS IN A PHOTOGRAPH AS TIMELESS AND UNIQUE AS YOUR LOVE.

ALL IMAGES BY JACKIE PFEFFER / CLICK. PICTURES

THE MEMORIES

B R I D A L

1

S E C T I O N

TRAVEL

Having It All WHY SACRIFICE INTIMACY FOR VARIETY WHEN YOU CAN HAVE BOTH? BY LENORE RICH

I

adore the warmth and sophistication of a small ship (why should I dine with thousands?) yet hate to forego the myriad activities of a large one. Wanting both options, and unsure if I’d be craving a burger bar or a sushi bar, a pomegranate martini or a double chocolate milkshake,

I set out to discover a “luxurious and healthful small ship experience” aboard a mega-ship.

Just to be safe, I booked two one-week cruises aboard Celebrity’s award-winning Solstice Class ships, each easily housing 2,850 passengers

40

and touted by Frommer’s as “the most fragrantly beautiful mega-ships ever built.” Venues include a spa (with treatments like bamboo massage, acupuncture, Botox, and 14K gold facials), a fitness center with spectacular water views, and state-of-the-art theaters (one equipped for “cirque-type” aerialists). Lounge options include a martini bar with frosted counters and a molecular bar tended by lab coat wearing mixologists who create tantalizing smoking concoctions with liquid nitrogen. Consider the “Lawn Club”, a half-acre of real grass on which you can play bocce, hone your putting skills, sunbathe, picnic or sip chardonnay under the stars. And—to satisfy the newly-emerging cruise demographic of 30 to 50 year olds—a fabulous nightclub! y mission was to have it all, but without the lines, crowds and 5,000-plus calories a day (despite my husband’s desire for all of this!). So here’s what I found: Booking one of 130 coveted “spa-inspired” AquaClass staterooms grants exclusive entry to “Blu”, a signature dining room that “puts a spin on spa cuisine.” Here, open-seating breakfasts (smoothies and frittatas included) and healthful dinners are available in a serene, intimate setting.

Unlimited access to the relaxation room and “Persian Gardens” (a peaceful enclave within the spa), Frette robes, Hansgrohe shower panels, and a spa concierge are among the enhancements. If spa-inspired is not your thing but pampering is, consider Concierge Class or a Butler suite.

M

WOULD I CRAVE A POMEGRANATE MARTINI OR A CHOCOLATE MILKSHAKE?

Don’t Leave Home Without It! • Pack sample sizes of suntan lotions, insect repellent and cosmetics. Consider ear plugs, chargers, a mini flashlight, crazy glue, baggies.

• An over-the-door shoe caddy or organizer is a space saver in the cabin and a catch-all for small items.

• Duct tape, now in an array of colors and patterns, can save the day. Repair a torn hem or handbag, secure rattling hangers or drawers in rocky seas, secure your favorite cap to the deck chair or personalize your black luggage for easy identification. Turquoise? Leopard? Go for it!

• Copies of passports, credit cards, tickets and prescriptions (including eyeglasses) should be left with a contact and also carried with you. Or why not email them to yourself for easy access?

• Cross pack with your travel companion. If one bag is lost or delayed you’ll each have something to wear!

And seriously consider travel insurance for those unexpected problems.

• Alert credit card companies, particularly if traveling out of the country, and find out which of them assess (hidden) foreign purchase fees, often 3%.

• A current passport with an expiration date well beyond your travel return date is crucial. Check the expiration when booking your trip. Need a visa?

Injections? Plan ahead!

Specialty restaurants were well worth the surcharge. In Murano, five (gorgeous!) servers treated our party of four royally, flambéing, deboning and tossing contemporary French cuisine tableside. Qsine, one of the most innovative restaurants on land or sea, was a culinary adventure. Forewarned that this venue is best experienced with others, our table of eight newfound friends perused menu offerings on iPads and Rubics-cube-likegizmos. The internationally-themed food was creative, delicious and outrageous, evoking much good cheer for the duration of our four-hour meal. (Although we missed the evening’s scheduled entertainment, we created our own.)

To avoid the elaborate lunch buffet on sea days (a tough task since the aroma is hard to resist), we opted for lunch at the more sedate creperie, conveniently located near the gelateria! (Those in the know head here as soon as they board.)

Celebrity has designed on-board programs categorized as Savour, Discover and Renew. I can hone the art of wine pairing or choose to detox for health and weight loss. I can learn a new language with Rosetta Stone or practice it in the iLounge. An urge to tango? Prepare a gourmet meal?

How about a Smithsonian lecturer? The possibilities are overwhelming... so I head to the spa to de-stress!

Clearly, there’s something for every taste on the high seas and I know I’ll be back to try it all! Or I can just sink into the closest cocoon chair with a pineapple caipirinha and do absolutely nothing!

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WITH LIMITED STORAGE AND NEW AIRLINE WEIGHT REGULATIONS, PACKING LIGHT IS KEY. • Create a wardrobe based on solid neutrals. (Yes— sage is a neutral!) Fabulous accessories are key. Will your tablemates remember that you wore the same “column of black” on multiple evenings, or will they remember your gorgeous leopard scarf, red belt, or statement necklace?

• Men: Good time to come out of your comfort zone with great belts, ties and watches. Try that pink or lavender shirt you won’t wear at home and prepare for compliments.

• Note: Several cruise lines have relaxed their dress code to Country Club Casual. Those who lament leaving their gown or tux at home, play up the accessories. Diamonds and gemstones spell instant black tie glamour.

• Consider the purchase of a new camera or laptop on board. Celebrity, an authorized Apple reseller, gives lessons in the iLounge—you’ll have the entire cruise to get advice from the experts.

PerfectGems

EXPLORE THE LITTLE LUXURIES THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER.

BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

PRIVATE VIEW Not far from Missoula, Montana a wide stretch of foothills and hay meadows surrounds The Ranch At Rock Creek, a new, very luxurious guest ranch. Along with comfortable rooms, an impressive selection of wines and excellent food, there’s a full spa on site; activities in the area range from fly-fishing to skiing.

For the guest who wants to experience nature in private without sacrificing creature comforts, the ranch offers the Trapper Luxury Canvas Cabin.

Sequestered in a wooded area next to the creek, two miles from the main buildings, this suite has a king bed, gas fireplace, wine cooler, kitchenette stocked to your specifications, and even a Jacuzzi on the front porch. Perfect for the greenhorn who wants to get back to nature.

VICTOR HUGO ATE HERE This autumn, the hottest souvenir in Paris is a copy of the newly released Les Contemplations Gourmandes by chef Florian V. Hugo. A direct descendant of the legendary writer Victor Hugo, Chef Hugo’s new book contains 55 traditional French recipes enjoyed by his ancestor, with rare pictures, drawings, documents and quotes from Victor Hugo, and from other writers about the Les Misérables author and the culinary aspects of life. Instead of photographs of yourself in front of the Eiffel Tower, you’ll dazzle your friends with boeuf bourguignon, soufflé au fromage, biszue de homard, and macaron à la rose.

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maestro collection

A percentage of each sale of the automatic Maestro Collection will be donated to VH1 Save The Music Foundation.

20% of sales up to $30,000

FOOD

Culinary Class

CHATEAU D'ANCY LE FRANC

IT’S A LOT MORE THAN COOKING... BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

O

n a quiet afternoon, an American tourist wandering around a shop in Rome struck up a conversation with the young woman behind the counter. After chatting for a few minutes, the saleswoman looked curiously at the customer, then leaned forward and confidentially asked why the visitor was shopping instead of sightseeing. “After all,” she whispered, “you have everything in the U.S.” It’s true that finding things to bring home is becoming increasingly difficult. Every fashion house in the world is represented in the U.S., and American jewelry shops not only have a full range of pieces created in America, but an elaborate and extensive collection of European designs as well. That leaves T-shirts, baseball caps and coffee mugs. Do you really need another one?

There is one other thing, one aspect of a vacation that won’t shrink, fade, or crack over time: memories. Walking through the Piazza San Marco late at night, your first moments in the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, watching

the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London… while cooking dinner.

For some people, the last thing they want to do during a holiday is see the inside of a kitchen. But there are many others who find the opportunity to learn a new dish to be a marvelous souvenir. Coming home with cooking knowledge has several advantages. It’s not something that needs to be declared at customs. An innovative dish can kick your confidence up a notch and make you feel like a real chef. And, of course, once a group of friends are gathered around your dining room table, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to tell your trapped guests all about your vacation.

Cooking classes have in fact become a staple at leading restaurants and hotels all over the world. At the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, the hotel’s chefs, under the direction of executive chef Siegfried Eisenberger (1998 coach of the Apprentice Team and captain of the U.S. Culinary Olympic Team) guide novices to gourmets through topics such as Entertaining at Home, Summer Grilling, Hors d’oeuvres Made Easy and Dessert Specialties.

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island), where the chef teaches about Cretan food. Next, everyone adjourns to the kitchen for a practical lesson featuring local ingredients. Of course, all sit down together to share the meal and a bottle of the local wine.

Chef Philippe Masseglia at the famous Le Bartolomeo restaurant at the Hotel Guanahani on St. Barths also takes a casual approach to cooking classes. Guests who dine at his restaurant and like a particular item on the menu can simply ask how it’s made. They’re invited into the chef’s kitchen where he greets them as friends, opens a bottle of wine, and teaches them how to prepare their favorite dish.

Nearly everyone (except maybe Greeks and Italians) agrees that French cooking is the ultimate gastronomic experience. The French take both cooking and eating very seriously and the country abounds in cooking classes.

These two are bound to whet the appetite.

In the Loire Valley, the Château Hotel de la Bourdaisiere ` is a magnificent 15th-century castle owned by Prince Louis Albert de Broglie.

In this sophisticated and majestic environment, the park and the gardens are cultivated in the big market garden tradition. To bring to light the simple beauty found in a vegetable, the master gardener sets flowers and aromatic herbs in original arrangements in crannies of chestnut trees around the property. There are also 80 acres of park and historic gardens including a grand vegetable garden, famous for its collection of 650 tomato varieties (the château hosts an annual tomato festival). Here, cooking classes are many and may include harvesting produce from the garden, preparing lunch or dinner under the guidance of the chef, and even tours of local vineyards.

VILLA LE MASCHERE

To make you feel even more official, the Broadmoor will arrange for you to take your apron home with you.

In the summer, guests at the Hasting House Country House Hotel on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia are invited to catch Dungeness crabs.

You’ll board a boat, help pull up a crab trap, and learn how to clean and prepare your catch. Finally, the executive chef teaches guests how to cook crab specialties and everyone sits down to a communal dinner.

Then there’s the Borgo Santo Pietro, a 13th-century villa surrounded by 13 acres of gardens in the Tuscan hillside not far from Florence. In this peaceful setting (800 years ago pilgrims rested here on their way to Rome) cooking classes are held in the kitchen, under the guidance of chefs Richard Gynn or Nicole Ianesi. Guests have the choice of cooking a pasta, bread, or dessert item. If you want to truly indulge in Tuscan cooking, each year in April and October Borgo Santo Pietro offers a three-night, two-day Tuscan cooking experience. This special package features a visit to the cheese production hub in the local village of Palazzetto and a tour of the herb and vegetable gardens at Borgo, guided by the veggie garden keeper, Davide. After gathering ingredients, cooking classes begin with traditional Tuscan specialties: breads, antipasti, pastas and sauces.

Also in Tuscany is Villa Le Maschere. Built in the 16th-century by the Bettini family, this villa is situated in the hills of the Mugello region near Lake Bilancino. The stunning site is important not just for aesthetic reasons but because Mugello has the highest agricultural production rate in all of Tuscany. In its

COOKING CLASSES HAVE BECOME A STAPLE AT LEADING RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS ALL OVER THE WORLD. panorama, white wild boar and sheep feed on chestnuts and porcini and the region’s famous cattle graze freely. Naturally, this location has a dramatic effect on the cooking classes.

Master Chef Fabio Matteo Danzo begins his classes by selecting from the region’s (and the season’s) freshest ingredients. Students prepare a meal at the hotel’s Il Pioppo Nero restaurant. Once the cooking is completed it’s tutti a tavola overlooking the Tuscan countryside from which the wonderful meal emanated.

The Greeks are famous for their hospitality, particularly around the dinner table; it’s not unusual for meals to go on for hours. One of the most famous areas for food is the island of Crete. Here, not only is the cuisine delicious, it’s also rumored to be one of the healthiest diets in the world. The Cretans eat primarily only what they grow or make. At the lovely Avli in Rethymnon, the cooking classes are relaxed events. Guests are invited to gather in the garden restaurant (one of the most beautiful locations on the

The Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, in Burgundy, is a Renaissance palace. It’s considered a work of art, by the famous Italian architect Sébastiano Serlio, master of symmetry and of 16th-century architecture, who was summoned to the French court by François I. The château sits on the lands of the Dukes of Burgundy and contains the largest collection of Renaissance murals in France. Cooking classes are taught by Parisian chef Judicael Ruch and take place in the old kitchens, which in the 17th century belonged to Louis XIV’s famous minister, the Marquess of Louvois, and once even hosted the king.

Each course is paired with Laroche wines from the region.

There’s more to gain than simply learning how to sauté or mix. Along with chefs and other students, you’ll meet sommeliers, gardeners and pastry experts. And once you arrive back at home, you can enthrall your guests with tales of kitchen adventures as you serve your latest accomplishment. As Julia Child said, “Dining with one’s friends and family is certainly one of life’s primal delights, both soul-satisfying and eternal.”

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END PAGE

The Ultimate Gift GOOD HEALTH IS ALL THAT MATTERS, BUT GOOD DIAMONDS CAN’T HURT...

BY HANS GSCHLIESSER

F

or better or worse took on significant meaning this year as I watched the woman I love suffer through a medical crisis. It started when, for some unknown reason, Janet stopped cooking. This was simply unfathomable to me. She loves to cook! And I love to eat.

As if this wasn’t bad enough, she also stopped eating, saying that the mere smell of food was making her nauseous. She totally refused to go anywhere near the kitchen. As I am a terrible cook, we were both getting thinner by the day. “I know you want to lose a few pounds, but don’t you think this is a bit extreme?” I asked her. No answer. Was this some sort of psychological rebellion against me? It is about me isn’t it?

Knowing something was very wrong, we called in doctors. There were endless tests with endless specialists but still no answers. In a state of helpless confusion I watched as my wife withered away physically and emotionally. I watched as the ambulance took her to the hospital, as she received more tests from more specialists. Then finally, a diagnosis: “Your wife is anorexic, has a brain hemorrhage and Bacterial Endocarditis, which has destroyed her heart valve. She needs open heart surgery.” I sat there white as a ghost as the blood drained from my body. Bacterial what?

By now, Janet was gaunt, exhausted and terrified at the prospect of

surgery, which was to be scheduled after eight weeks of daily IV antibiotics, administered by me, at home. To regain her strength, she needed to eat.

Luckily, supportive family and friends precluded the need for my cooking.

Slowly she regained her appetite as the antibiotic killed off the nasty little Streptococcus Viridans bacteria. But the looming prospect of open heart valve replacement surgery haunted us every minute. Ultimately, the day arrived and we drove to the hospital in a state of disbelief. The surgery was scheduled for Valentine’s Day, which felt like a good omen. After five intense hours, the surgeon came out to inform me that all had gone well. I could finally breathe.

And to celebrate the ultimate gift of my wife getting a new heart for Valentines Day, I surprised her with a pair of diamond earrings. The nurse ran into the room in a frenzy when Janet’s EKG lit up the monitor, but it was only her heart fluttering as she opened the box and saw the earrings.

“I’ve always wanted these; I’m never taking them off!” she exclaimed with joy and gratitude. It was just what the doctor ordered to renew the twinkle in her eyes, the radiant smile, the prospect of normalcy. And how we both craved the monotony of normal routine living! Routine living, with a little extra sparkle.

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© D.YURMAN 2011

DY Signatures

BACHENDORF’S ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

FALL/WINTER 2011